Dynamic radiographing system

ABSTRACT

A dynamic radiographing system enables determination of an evaluation value of the heart function of a subject by plain radiography. The dynamic radiographing system comprises a radiographing apparatus, an image processing apparatus, and a console for diagnosis. The radiographing apparatus dynamically radiographs the heart of a subject and creates radiographs in plural time phases (Step S 1 ). The image processing apparatus calculates an evaluation value of the heart function by using the radiographs in plural time phases (Step S 4 ). The console for diagnosis displays information on the calculated evaluation value on the display section (Step S 5 ).

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a U.S. national stage of application No. PCT/JP2008/071007,filed on 19 Nov. 2008. Priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(a) and 35 U.S.C.§365(b) is claimed from Japanese Application No. 2007-317443, filed 7Dec. 2007, and from Japanese Application No. 2007-317449, filed 7 Dec.2007, the disclosures of which are also incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a dynamic radiographing system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Various forms of measurement have been performed to know the state ofthe heart function. For example, a measuring system is disclosed bywhich the blood speed and blood pressure are calculated from the crosssectional shape of a blood vessel using an ultrasound tomographic image,whereby the state of blood flow is grasped (Patent Literature 1 forexample).

A calculating system is also disclosed by which the movement informationshowing the heart movement is calculated using the images inchronological order obtained by an ultrasonic wave, MRI (MagneticResonance Imaging) or CT (Computer Tomography), whereby the state ofheart movement is grasped (Patent Literatures 2 and 3 for example).

MRI imaging CT radiography and catheter examination are used to examinethe heart. However, these imaging apparatuses for examination arehigh-priced and increase the financial burden. The catheter examinationrequires the catheter to be inserted into a patient body. This is aheavy burden on the patient.

In addition to the imaging of MRI and CT, plain X-ray radiography isalso commonly practiced. This requires imaging apparatuses for aplurality of types of imaging, which again raises cost problems.Further, a plurality of shooting operations must be performed bychanging the apparatuses. This signifies a greater burden on thepatient.

As a radiographing apparatus developed to solve these problems, a CTradiographing apparatus is used to perform both the CT radiographing andplain X-ray radiographing operations (Patent Literature 4 for example).

Patent Literature 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application PublicationNo. 11-76233

Patent Literature 2: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application PublicationNo. 2002-306483

Patent Literature 3: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application PublicationNo. 2003-265480

Patent Literature 4: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application PublicationNo. 2004-337289

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION Problems to be Solved by the Invention

However, the MRI and CT radiographing apparatuses are high-priced andincrease the financial burden. At the time of examination, plain X-rayradiography is often performed. If a plurality of imaging operations byusing ultrasonic wave or MRI are required in addition to such a basicradiography, a burden of the patient will be increased.

In small-sized medical institutions, plain X-ray radiographingapparatuses have come into more widespread use than the CT radiographingapparatuses. The methods disclosed in Patent Literature 4 cannot beadopted.

An object of the present invention is to obtain an evaluation value forheart function by a plain X-ray radiographing operation.

Another object of the present invention is to obtain an X-ray imagesuited to medical examination of the heart part by a plain X-rayradiographing operation characterized by reduced costs and burden on apatient.

Means for Solving the Problems

Preferred embodiments according to the invention are as follows.

(1) A dynamic radiographing system, which includes:

a radiographing device which further contains an X-ray source foremitting X-rays and a detector for detecting the X-ray emitted from theX-ray source, and which takes a dynamic radiograph of a heart part of asubject and generates X-ray images in a plurality of time phases;

an image analysis device for calculating the evaluation value relatingto a heart function using the aforementioned X-ray images in a pluralityof time phases;

a display device; and

a control device for permitting the information on the calculatedevaluation value to be displayed on the display device.

(2) The dynamic radiographing system described in Item 1,

wherein the aforementioned evaluation value contains that of the bloodspeed and

the image analysis device detects the image of a pulsating part from theX-ray images in a plurality of time phases, and calculates the center ofgravity of the pulsating part detected from each of the X-ray images ina plurality of time phases, and then calculates the traveling distanceof the center of gravity per unit time as the evaluation value of theblood speed.

(3) The dynamic radiographing system described in Item 1 or 2,

wherein the aforementioned evaluation value contains that of the cardiacoutput and

the image analysis device detects the image of a pulsating part from theX-ray images in a plurality of time phases and calculates the volume ofthe pulsating part having been detected, as the evaluation value for thecardiac output.

(4) The dynamic radiographing system described in any one of theaforementioned Items 1 through 3,

wherein the aforementioned evaluation value contains that of the beatand

the image analysis device detects the image of the main artery part fromthe X-ray images in a plurality of time phases and calculates a changeof the signal value in a prescribed area of the main artery partdetected from each of the X-ray images in time phases, as the evaluationvalue for the beat.

(5) The dynamic radiographing system described in any one of theaforementioned Items 1 through 4,

wherein the aforementioned evaluation value contains that of thedistance, directionality or periodicity of the movement of the localpart of heart and

the image analysis device detects the image of the heart part from theX-ray images in a plurality of time phases and calculates the distance,directionality or periodicity of the movement of the local part of heartbetween the images of the heart part having different time phases.

(6) The dynamic radiographing system described in Item 5,

wherein the image analysis device calculates the evaluation values forthe distance, directionality or periodicity of the movement of the localpart of heart for each segment of the heart part.

(7) The dynamic radiographing system described in any one of theaforementioned Items 1 through 6, wherein the aforementioned controldevice allows at least one of the X-ray images in a plurality of timephases together with the information on the aforementioned evaluationvalue to be displayed on the display device.(8) The dynamic radiographing system described in any one of theaforementioned Items 1 through 7,

wherein the aforementioned radiographing device takes an enlargedradiograph of the heart part.

(9) The dynamic radiographing system described in any one of theaforementioned Items 1 through 8,

wherein the aforementioned radiographing device takes a radiograph inthe rotation angle phase in which the long axis of the heart part in theX-ray image is the longest.

(10) The dynamic radiographing system described in Item 1, which furtherincludes:

a holding device for rotatably holding the subject as the radiographingtarget between the X-ray source and detector; and

a reading device for reading the X-ray image from the detector,

wherein, the control device controls the rotation angle phase of theholding device variably, allows X-rays to be emitted from the X-raysources in a plurality of rotation angle phases in the pre-radiographingmode, and determines the rotation angle phase in which the long axis ofthe heart area is the longest, based on each of the X-ray imagesobtained from the detector by means of the reading device, in each ofthe rotation phases, and allows the X-rays to be emitted from the X-raysource while fixing the holding device at the rotation angle phase inthe actual radiographing mode.

(11) The dynamic radiographing system described in Item 10,

wherein the holding device is arranged movably between the X-ray sourceand detector, and the control device determines, in thepre-radiographing mode, the rotation angle phase in which the long axisof the heart area is the longest, at the position where the holdingdevice has been moved to the detector side, and in the actualradiographing mode, allows the holding device to move to the X-raysource side after fixing the rotation angle phase of the holding device.

(12) The dynamic radiographing system described in Item 10 or 11,

wherein the control device allows X-rays to be emitted a plurality oftimes on a continuous basis from the X-ray source in the actualradiographing mode, and permits the X-ray image to be read from thedetector by the reading device for each emission of the X-ray, wherebydynamic radiographing of the heart area is performed.

(13) The dynamic radiographing system described in any one of the Items10 through 12, which further includes

an image processing device which applies image processing in conformityto the heart part to the X-ray image obtained by the actualradiographing operation.

EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION

According to the embodiment described in Item 1, a doctor obtains anevaluation value relating to heart function by a plain X-rayradiographing operation and uses this value for diagnostic purpose. Thiscan be achieved by using a widely used radiographing device for plainX-ray radiographing operation, without having to use a high-pricedimaging apparatus such as an MRI, whereby cost reduction can beaccomplished. Except for the X-ray radiographing operation performed atbase, this method eliminates the need of another separate examinationfor inspection of the heart function, with the result that the patientburden is reduced.

According to the embodiment described in Item 2, the doctor can evaluatethe blood speed.

According to the embodiment described in Item 3, the doctor can evaluatethe cardiac output.

According to the embodiment described in Item 4, the doctor can evaluatethe beat.

According to the embodiment described in Item 5, the doctor can evaluatethe movement of the local part of heart.

According to the embodiment described in Item 6, the doctor can evaluatethe movement of the local part of heart for each segment of the heartpart. The reduction in the heart function by disease often representsthe reduction in the function of the portion of the heart causing thatdisease, rather than the reduction in the entire heart function. Theevaluation value for each segment provides effective diagnosticinformation.

According to the embodiment described in Item 7, the doctor evaluatesthe heart function while observing the X-ray image.

According to the embodiment described in Item 8, an enlarged X-ray imageof the heart part can be obtained, and hence an X-ray image suited fordiagnosis of the heart part is provided.

According to the embodiment described in Item 9, radiographing operationcan be performed in the radiographing direction wherein the long axis ofthe heart part is the longest. This arrangement provides an X-ray imagesuited for diagnosis of the heart part.

According to the embodiment described in Item 10, the pre-radiographingoperation assists the heart part to be radiographed from the directionthat ensures easiest observation, and thereby an X-ray image suited fordiagnosis is provided. Since the normal plain X-ray radiography is used,the burden on the patient is reduced and this invention can be used inthe radiographing apparatus for plain X-ray radiography widely used inmedical institutions. This invention provides an X-ray image suited formedical examination of the heart part without increasing the cost.

According to the embodiment described in Item 11, a distance is placedbetween the subject and detector, whereby an enlarged image of the heartpart can be obtained. Thus, a doctor is provided with an X-ray imagethat ensures easy medical examination.

According to the embodiment described in Item 12, X-ray image in eachtime phase can be obtained by dynamic radiographing. The image suppliesthe doctor with information of temporal and dynamic changes.

According to the embodiment described in Item 13, image processing inconformity to the heart part can be applied, as exemplified by gradationprocessing by which the contrast of the heart part is enhanced. Thus, ahigh-quality X-ray image suited to the diagnosis of the heart part canbe provided.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram representing a dynamic radiographing system in thepresent embodiment

FIG. 2 is a diagram representing a functional structure of theradiographing apparatus and console for radiography of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a diagram representing a functional structure of the imageprocessing apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a diagram representing a flow of processing in the dynamicradiographing system.

FIG. 5 is a diagram representing the relationship between the heart partand the image of the heart part in an X-ray image.

FIG. 6 is a diagram representing the relationship among the X-raysource, subject and detector in the pre-radiographing mode.

FIG. 7 is a diagram representing the relationship among the X-raysource, subject and detector in the dynamic radiographing mode.

FIG. 8 is a diagram describing the edge effect in the phase contrastradiography.

FIG. 9 is a diagram describing the method of calculating the blood speedand cardiac output.

FIG. 10 is a diagram describing the method of calculating the evaluationvalue for beat.

FIG. 11 is a diagram describing the method of calculating the evaluationvalue for movement of the local part of heart.

FIG. 12 is a diagram representing the display examples of evaluationvalues for the blood speed, cardiac output and beat.

FIG. 13 is a diagram representing the display examples of evaluationvalues for movement of the local part of heart.

FIG. 14 is a diagram representing a flow of processing in the secondembodiment.

FIG. 15 is a histogram of the signal value in the X-ray image.

FIG. 16 is a diagram representing the normalizing characteristics in theprocess of normalizing applied to the X-ray image and the conversioncurve used in the process of gradation conversion.

DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

-   -   1. Dynamic radiographing system    -   10. Radiographing apparatus    -   11. X-ray source    -   12. Detector    -   13. Holding section    -   15. Cycle detecting section    -   16. Reading section    -   17. Drive section    -   20. Console for radiography    -   21. Control section    -   30. Console for diagnosis    -   40. Image processing apparatus    -   47. Image analysis section    -   50. Server

BEST FORM OF EMBODIMENT OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The following describes the structure. FIG. 1 is a diagram representinga dynamic radiographing system 1 in the present embodiment. As shown inFIG. 1, the dynamic radiographing system 1 includes a radiographingapparatus 10, console for radiography 20, console for diagnosis 30,image processing apparatus 40 and server 50. These components 10 through50 are connected via the network N.

The radiographing apparatus 10, console for radiography 20 and consolefor diagnosis 30 are used to radiograph the X-ray image of a subject.The radiographing apparatus 10 applies X-rays to the subject and readsthe X-ray image from the detector. The radiographing apparatus 10 allowsthe dynamic radiographing to be performed. Dynamic radiographing can bedefined as a method of radiography to obtain X-ray images in a pluralityof time phases by continuous X-ray emission. The console for radiography20 is used for operation by a radiographing technician to controlirradiation of X-rays and reading of the X-ray image. The console forradiography 20 also displays the X-ray image having been read, to bechecked by the radiographing technician (checked as to whether the imagecan be sent for the diagnosis in the next process or requiresre-radiography). The console for diagnosis 30 is operated by the doctorto display the X-ray image sent from the console for radiography 20 forthe diagnosis of the doctor.

Referring to FIG. 2, the following describes the radiographing apparatus10 and console for radiography 20. As shown in FIG. 2, the radiographingapparatus 10 includes an X-ray source 11, detector 12, holding section13, traveling rail 14, cycle detecting section 15, reading section 16and drive section 17. The console for radiography 20 includes a controlsection 21, storage section 22, operating section 23, display section 24and communicating section 25. The X-ray source 11, cycle detectingsection 15, reading section 16 and drive section 17 of the radiographingapparatus 10 are connected to the console for radiography 20.

The following describes the radiographing apparatus 10. The X-ray source11 applies X-rays under the control of the control section 21 of theconsole for radiography 20. The X-ray irradiation conditions to becontrolled include the pulse rate, pulse width, pulse intervals,irradiation start/end timing, X-ray tube current, X-ray tube voltage andfilter values in the continuous radiographing mode of the dynamicradiographing operation. The pulse rate can be defined as the number ofradiographing operations per unit time. The pulse width refers to theX-ray irradiation time per one radiographing operation. The pulseinterval is the time, in the continuous radiographing mode, from thestart of X-ray irradiation in a certain radiographing operation to thestart of X-ray irradiation in the next radiographing operation.

The detector 12 is arranged opposed to the X-ray source 11, with asubject W sandwiched in-between. The detector 12 is exemplified by theFPD (Flat Panel Detector) in which X-ray detecting sensors are arrangedin the form of a matrix. To be more specific, the X-rays are convertedinto the electric signals conforming to the intensity thereof, and areaccumulated for each pixel (detecting sensor). Thus, the X-ray image isrecorded by the detector 12.

The reading section 16 is a reading device to read the X-ray image fromthe detector 12. The reading section 16 sends the read X-ray image tothe console for radiography 20. The reading operation is controlled bythe control section 21. The image reading conditions to be controlledincludes the frame rate, frame interval, pixel size and image size. Theframe rate and frame interval are synonymous with the aforementionedpulse rate and pulse interval.

The holding section 13 is a holding device for holding the subject Was atarget to be radiographed, and for fixing the radiographing position.FIG. 2 shows an example of a stool type as the holding section 13. A bedor other forms of devices can also be used as the holding section 13.The holding section 13 is arranged rotatably with the subject W heldthereby. The drive section 17 drives the rotation of the holding section13 under the control of the control section 21 of the console forradiography 20.

The holding section 13 is arranged movably between the X-ray source 11and detector 12 by the traveling rail 14. To be more specific, thetraveling mil is laid on the line between the X-ray source 11 anddetector 12, and the holding section 13 is mounted so that the holdingsection 13 can slide on the traveling rail 14. This structure ensuresthat the holding section 13 moves freely between the X-ray source 11 anddetector 12. It is also possible to make such arrangements that themovement of the holding section 13 is driven by the drive section 17under the control of the control section 21, or by the radiographingtechnician.

The cycle detecting section 15 detects the cycle of the biologicalreaction at the radiographed area of the subject W. For example, whenthe radiographed position is the heart part, the cycle detecting section15 detects the heart beat cycle using a heart rate meter orelectrocardiograph. When the radiographed area is the chest includingthe lung field, the breathing cycle is detected using a breathingmonitoring belt, CCD camera, optical camera, spirometer and others. Thedetected cycle information is outputted to the control section 21 of theconsole for radiography 20.

The following describes the console for radiography 20. The controlsection 21 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random AccessMemory) and other. The control section 21 reads out the various programsstored in the storage section 22 by the CPU, and develops the programsin the RAM. Through collaboration with the developed programs, thecontrol section 21 performs various forms of calculation and provides acentralized control of the operations of each component for processing.

The storage section 22 is a storage device such as a hard disk andstores various forms of programs used by the control section 21 and theparameter required to execute these programs. For example, the storagesection 22 stores the radiographing conditions (e.g., X-ray imageirradiation conditions and X-ray image reading conditions) optimized foreach radiographing area.

The operating section 23 includes the keyboard, mouse and others. Theoperating section 23 generates the operation signal in response to theseoperations, and outputs this signal to the control section 21.

The display section 24 includes a display and displays various operationscreens and X-ray image obtained by radiographing operation, under thedisplay control of the control section 21.

The communicating section 25 has a communication interface andcommunicates with the external apparatus connected to the network N.

The console for diagnosis 30 is used for operations by the doctor, anddisplays the X-ray image sent from the console for radiography 20 sothat this image is checked by the doctor. The basic structure of theconsole for diagnosis 30 is the same as that of the console forradiography 20. The console for diagnosis 30 includes a control section,operating section, display section, storage section and communicatingsection.

The image processing apparatus 40 and server 50 are used to provide theX-ray image obtained by radiographing to be diagnosed by the doctor.

Referring to FIG. 3, the following describes the image processingapparatus 40: The image processing apparatus 40 applies image processingto the X-ray image for an image quality of easy diagnosis. As shown inFIG. 3, the image processing apparatus 40 includes a control section 41,operating section 42, display section 43, storage section 44,communicating section 45, image processing section 46 and image analysissection 47.

The basic functions of the control section 41 through communicatingsection 45 are the same as those of the control section 21 throughcommunicating section 25 of the console for radiography 20 describedabove, and will not be described in detail.

The image processing section 46 is an image processing device whichapplies various forms of image processing such as gradation conversionprocessing and frequency adjustment processing to the X-ray image. Imageprocessing is executed through collaboration with the image processingprogram and CPU. The image processing of the type in conformance to theradiographed area is provided under the image processing conditions inconformance to the radiographed area. Details will be described later.The X-ray image subjected to the image processing is sent to the server50 through the communicating section 45.

The image analysis section 47 analyzes the X-ray images in a pluralityof time phases obtained from the heart part being dynamicallyradiographed, and calculates the evaluation values for heart function.The evaluation values for heart function include the evaluation valuesfor blood speed, cardiac output, beat, and the distance, directionalityor periodicity of the movement of the local part of heart. The specificmethod for calculating evaluation values will be described later.

The server 50 has large-capacity memory and in the memory, stores andmanages the X-ray image having been subjected to image processing by theimage processing apparatus 40. The X-ray image stored in the server 50is distributed in response to the request by the console for diagnosis30, and is utilized for diagnosis.

The First Embodiment

The following describes the operation in the first embodiment. The firstdynamic radiographing system 1 of the first embodiment takes a dynamicradiograph of the heart part, and calculates and displays the evaluationvalue for heart function, using the X-ray images in a plurality of timephases having been obtained. FIG. 4 is a diagram representing a flow ofprocessing in the radiographing apparatus 10, console for diagnosis 30and image processing apparatus 40 of the dynamic radiographing system 1in the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 4, the heart part of the subject W is dynamicallyradiographed at the second oblique position in the radiographingapparatus 10, whereby the X-ray images at a plurality of time phases aregenerated (Step S1). Dynamic radiography is performed by magnificationradiographing method. At the time of radiographing, the radiographingtechnician inputs the patient information on the subject W and specifiesthe radiographed area “HEART” using the operating section 23 of theconsole for radiography 20.

The second oblique position can be defined as a position in which thesubject W is tilted with respect to the surface of the detector 12 insuch a way that the left side of the body of the subject W comes closerto the X-ray source 11. The direction of the long axis of the heart istilted with respect to the direction of the long axis of the body. Ifradiography is performed from the direction used in the case ofradiographing the chest part, i.e., from straight ahead of the body, thelong axis of the heart section cannot be maximized in the radiograph.

The following description refers to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a diagramrepresenting the relationship between the top view of the subject W anddetector 12, and the X-ray image “g” obtained by the detector 12. InFIG. 5, the subject W faces the detector 12.

As shown in FIG. 5, the heart part “h” is approximately elliptical, asviewed from the top. When the long axis 1 b of the ellipse is maximized,i.e., when the long axis 1 a of the heart part “gh” appearing on theX-ray image “g” is maximized, the ventricle of the heart is capturedfrom the direction in which the long axis is maximized, and the dynamicstate of the heart can be measured with the highest precision. However,the long axis 1 b of the heart part “h” is not parallel with the longaxis 1 w of the body portion of the subject W. An X-ray image thatensures easier observation of the heart part cannot be obtained, if theradiographing operation is performed by making the surface of thedetector 12 to be parallel with the long axis 1 w of the body portion ofthe subject W, as in the case of the normal chest radiography.

To solve this problem, the subject W is rotated, and radiographingoperation is performed at the rotation angle phase where the long axis 1b of the heart part “h” is maximized with respect to the detector 12,i.e., at the rotation angle phase where the long axis 1 a of the heartpart “gh” in the X-ray image “g” is maximized. The second obliqueposition is found in the radiographing direction in this case.

Thus, pre-radiographing is performed in advance to determine therotation angle phase as the second oblique position. In thepre-radiographing operation, as shown in FIG. 6, the holding section 13is given a prescribed angled turn several times when the subject W issitting on the holding section 13. Radiographing is performed at everyturn, thereby obtaining the rotation angle phase of the holding section13 wherein the long axis 1 a of the heart part “gh” appearing on theX-ray image “g” is maximized.

The rotation angle phase for pre-radiographing is obtained bydetermining the range of the average rotation angle phase where the longaxis 1 b of the heart part “h” is approximately parallel to the surfaceof the detector 12. The rotation angle phases for pre-radiographing arefinely set within this range.

The radiographing technician allows the subject W to be seated on theholding section 13. In this case, the subject W is positioned so as tobe close to the detector 12. Further, the subject W is fixed to theholding section 13 in such a way that the heart part of the subject W islocated approximately at the center of the surface of the detector 12,in other words, the centerline of the X-ray emitted in the form of acone beam from the X-ray source 11 passes through vicinity of the heartpart. Then the instruction to start pre-radiographing is given byoperating the operating section 23 of the console for radiography 20.

In response to the operation for the start of pre-radiographing, thecontrol section 21 provides various controls for pre-radiographing. Asshown in FIG. 6, as viewed from the top, 0 degree is assumed as therotation angle phase wherein the surface of the detector 12 is parallelto the long axis 1 w of the body portion of the subject W. Rotation isgiven by the drive section 17 in increments of 5 through 10 degreeswithin the range of the average rotation angle phase wherein the longaxis 1 b of the heart part “h” is approximately parallel to the surfaceof the detector 12 (e.g., 20 through 45 degrees). The control section 21allows the X-ray source 11 to emit X-rays at every turn and permits thereading section 16 to read the X-ray image from the detector 12 at everyemission. Also in the pre-radiographing mode, radiographing ispreferably performed at approximately the same phase timing synchronizedwith heart beat.

The X-ray images having been read are sequentially inputted into thecontrol section 21. The control section 21 analyzes the X-ray images ina plurality of rotation angle phases, and specifies the rotation anglephase wherein the long axis 1 a of the heart part “gh” in the X-rayimage “g” (FIG. 5) is maximized.

In analysis, the image area of the heart part “gh” is detected from theX-ray image “g”. The heart part “gh” of the X-ray image “g” commonlyappears in the form shown in FIG. 5. For example, a filter for detectingthe edge of the area of the heart part “gh” is prepared and the X-rayimage “g” having been obtained is subjected to a filtering process,whereby the area can be detected. It should be noted that there is noparticular restriction to the method of the detection. Other methods canbe used.

The control section 21 calculates the length in the main scanningdirection of the X-ray image “g” in the area of the heart part “gh”having been detected. The maximum length is assumed to be the long axis1 a of the heart part “gh” of the X-ray image “g”. The control section21 obtains the long axis 1 a in the X-ray image “g” of each rotationangle phase and specifies the X-ray image “g” of the long axis 1 a to bethe maximum length. The rotation angle phase of the X-ray image “g”having been specified is determined as the rotation angle phase at thesecond oblique position in which the dynamic radiographing is performed.(This is determined as the rotation angle phase in the actualradiographing mode in the second embodiment to be described later).

When the rotation angle phase in the second oblique position has beendetermined, the radiographing apparatus 10 starts dynamic radiographingoperation. The control section 21 controls the drive section 17 androtates the holding section 13 to the rotation angle phase having beendetermined, whereby the holding section 13 is fixed in position. Withthat rotation angle phase kept unchanged, the control section 21 allowsthe drive section 17 to move the holding section 13 toward the X-raysource 11, as shown in FIG. 7. This is intended to start a magnificationradiographing operation.

Magnification radiographing can be defined as the method ofradiographing using a certain distance placed between the subject W anddetector 12. In this method, the X-ray emitted in the form of a conebeam from the X-ray source 11 passes through the subject W. After that,the X-ray still continues to be in the form of a cone beam to enter thedetector 12. Thus, the X-ray image having been obtained is enlarged ascompared to the life size (actual size of the subject W). The image ofthis enlarged size is called the enlarged image.

The magnification rate M of the enlarged image with respect to the lifesize can be calculated from the following formula (I) wherein R1 denotesthe distance from the X-ray source 11 to the subject W, R2 indicates thedistance from the subject W to the detector 12, and R3 (=R1+R2) (unit ofR1, R2 and R3 is m) represents the distance from the X-ray source 11 todetector 12:

M=R3/R1  (1)

The magnification rate M can be adjusted by changing the distances R1and R2.

In the magnification radiographing, it is possible to use the phasecontrast radiographing wherein the edge enhancement effect on the marginof the subject W can be obtained by keeping the R1, R2 and R3 and thefocal diameter of the X-ray source 11 within prescribed ranges, asdisclosed in the Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No.2001-91479. The setting examples include the focal diameter D of 30 (μm)or more, R1 of (D-7)/200 or more, and R2 of 0.15 or more.

In the phase contrast image obtained by the phase contrastradiographing, the X-ray having been refracted by passing through themargin of the subject W is overlapped with the X-ray having been sentwithout passing through the subject W, as shown in FIG. 8, with theresult that the X-ray of the overlapped portion is intensified. In themeantime, the intensity of the X-ray is reduced at the portion insidethe margin of the subject W due to the X-ray having been refracted. Thisactivates the edge enhancement effect (also called the edge effect)wherein the difference in the X-ray intensity is increased with themargin of the subject W as a boundary. This will provide a highlyvisible X-ray image in which the marginal portion is clearly visible.Thus, the traveling distance of the holding section 13 can be set asappropriate, with consideration given to the magnification rate M andthe edge effect in the phase contrast radiographing.

After the holding section 13 has completed the movement, the controlsection 21 conducts controls for dynamic radiographing. In the firstplace, the control section 21 allows the X-ray source 11 to emit X-rays.The X-ray irradiation requirements in this case include a tube currentof 25 mA and a frame rate of 30 fps (30 frames/sec.) or more. The X-rayimage corresponding to at least one cycle of beat or more should becollected. The frame interval is 1 through 2 seconds in conformance tothe heart beat cycle. Due to a high frame rate, the dosage is slightlyincreased, with consideration given to the S/N ratio.

To enhance the contrast of the heart part in the X-ray image, thecontrol section 21 reduces the tube voltage. Generally, when the chestincluding the lung field is to be radiographed, the tube voltage isnormally set to about 120 kV. In this embodiment, though, the tubevoltage is set to about 60 through 80 kV to gain the low-power. Sincethe heart part is radiographed, the subject need not suspend breathingat the time of radiographing.

Further, the control section 21 allows the reading section 16 to readthe X-ray image from the detector 12, synchronously with X-rayirradiation. The reading requirements, for example, include a pixel sizeof 400 μm and an image size of 512×384 pixels. The control section 21allows reading to be performed at every irradiation of the X-ray. Thus,the X-ray images (frame images) in a plurality of time phases are readfrom the reading section 16.

Since there is some distance between the subject W and detector 12,radiographing is performed as the magnification radiographing (or phasecontrast radiographing) mode. Since the position of the subject W isfixed so that the heart part of the subject W will come to the center ofthe surface of the detector 12 at the time of pre-radiographing, theX-ray image obtained by dynamic radiographing should be the image withthe heart part being enlarged, differently from the X-ray imageincluding the entire chest part in the pre-radiographing. To be morespecific, the X-ray image includes the lung field in addition to theheart part in the pre-radiographing mode. However, in the dynamicradiographing, the part of the lung field captured in the X-ray image isreduced and the heart part accounts for the major portion of the image.This arrangement is better suited to the diagnosis of the heart part.

The control section 21 provides control in such a way that the X-rayimage at each time phase obtained by dynamic radiographing is displayedon the display section 24 for checking. In this case, the X-ray imagesare switched and displayed in conformance to each time phase on acontinuous basis so that the dynamic state for one heart beat cycle canbe checked. The radiographing technician checks the X-ray image in eachtime phase displayed thereon. If the image is satisfactory, theradiographing technician performs the operation of terminating theradiographing. In response to this operation, the control section 21sends the group of X-ray images in respective time phases obtained bydynamic radiographing to the console for diagnosis 30 through thecommunicating section 25.

Similarly, the console for diagnosis 30 allows a group of X-ray imagesin respective time phases to be displayed for checking (Step S2). Whenthe doctor has performed the operation of checking, the console fordiagnosis 30 displays the operation screen for designating the ROI (areaof interest to be diagnosed by the doctor) in the X-ray image of any oneof the time phases. The doctor performs the operation of designating asROI the area including the heart part and main artery part in the X-rayimage.

When the blood speed, cardiac output and beat are to be evaluated, themain artery part is the ROI. In the meantime, the heart part is the ROIwhen evaluating the distance, directionality or periodicity of themovement of the local part of heart. Since the evaluation requires thesegment of the heart part to be specified, the doctor specifies thesegment in the heart part.

When the ROI and segment of the heart part have been specified, theconsole for diagnosis 30 generates the information on the specifiedposition of the ROI and segment of the heart part as the ROI designationinformation. The group of the X-ray images in respective time phasestogether with the ROI designation information is sent to the imageprocessing apparatus 40 through the network N (Step S3).

After applying image processing to the X-ray image in each time phase bymeans of the image processing section 46, the image processing apparatus40 allows the image analysis section 47 to analyze images by using theX-ray image of each time phase, and calculates the evaluation value forheart function with regard to the blood speed, cardiac output and beat,and the distance, directionality or periodicity of the movement of thelocal part of heart (Step S4).

The evaluation value having been calculated is displayed on the consolefor diagnosis 30, and the X-ray images in each time phase are switchedand displayed in conformance to each time phase on a continuous basis(Step S5).

The following describes the method of calculation.

[Evaluation Value of Blood Speed and Cardiac Output]

FIG. 9 shows the X-ray image “gk” obtained by dynamic radiographing. TheX-ray image “gk” shows an enlarged view of the heart part taken bymagnification radiographing (or phase contrast radiographing). The imageanalysis section 47 detects the main artery area R specified as ROI inthe X-ray image “gk” in each time phase, based on the ROI designationinformation. The ROI has been specified in the X-ray image for a certaintime phase. The positions of the heart part and main artery specified asROIs are considered as being approximately the same, although the timephases are different. The ROIs specified for a certain time phase areapplied to all the X-ray images of time phases.

Assuming that “t” denotes time phase, the image R_(t=0), R_(t=Δt) ofFIG. 9 shows the enlarged view of the image portion of the area P of theX-ray image “gk” in time phase t=0, Δt.

The pumping function of the heart can be regarded as sending the lump ofblood to the main artery in a simulated manner. Thus, the travelingdistance of the lump of blood per unit time can be obtained as the bloodspeed, and the volume can be obtained as the cardiac output.

The image analysis section 47 detects the part of the lump of blood(hereinafter referred to as “pulsation part”) pushed out from the heartpart in the image R. The pulsation part has a higher density than thatof other blood portions. The image should be represented as a low signalvalue. Accordingly, the image analysis section 47 creates the histogramof the signal values for images R_(t=0), R_(t=Δt), and detects from thishistogram the area that will generally exhibit low signal values. To putit more specifically, two peaks showing the pulsation part and otherblood flow part are considered to appear on the histogram. The peakvalue for lower signal value is assumed to belong to the pulsation part.As shown in FIG. 9, the area having the signal value near the peak valueassumed to belong to the pulsation part in the images R_(t=0), R_(t=Δt)is detected as the pulsation part Q.

Then the image analysis section 47 finds out the position of the gravitycenters q_(t=0), q_(t=Δt) of the pulsation part Q in the images R_(t=0),R_(t=Δt) of different time phases. The position is found out in terms ofthe x and y coordinates when x indicates the number of pixels in themain scanning direction and y denotes the number of pixels in theauxiliary scanning direction of images R_(t=0), R_(t=Δt).

When the position of gravity center has been obtained, the imageanalysis section 47 detects the traveling distance “h” of the gravitycenters q_(t=0), q_(t=Δt) between the images R_(t=0), R_(t=Δt), andcalculates the traveling distance “h” per unit time, i.e., theevaluation value E1 of blood speed from the time Δt between the imagesR_(t=0), R_(t=Δt). The evaluation value E1 of the blood speed can beexpressed by the following formula 2.

E1=h/Δt  (2)

When the pulsation part Q is assumed to be elliptical, the cardiacoutput can be regarded as the volume of an ellipse. Assuming that thecross section of the vessel of the main artery is circular, the volumeof the pulsation part Q can be obtained from the radius r_(A) of theblood vessel and radius r_(B) of the long axis portion of the pulsationpart Q. Thus, the image analysis section 47 obtains the radiuses r_(A),r_(B) in any of the images R_(t=0), R_(t=Δt), and calculates theevaluation value E2 for the cardiac output therefrom according to thefollowing formula 3.

E2=4πr _(B) ×r _(A) ²/3  (3)

The blood vessel of the main artery can be detected by filter processingusing a Sobel filter for detecting the edge of this vessel, and half thedistance between the edges of the blood vessel is calculated as theradius r_(A) of the blood vessel. Further, the radius r_(B) can beobtained by getting the length of the pulsation part Q in the auxiliaryscanning direction, and halving this length.

[Evaluation Value for Beat]

The evaluation value for beat is an indicator showing the amount ofchange in the signal value of the image in a certain area of the bloodvessel of the main artery. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, when thereare images R_(t) of the main artery part identified from the X-rayimages in a plurality of time phases, the evaluation area (areaindicated by oblique lines in FIG. 10) is set so that the main artery iscrossed by the evaluation area at the same position of each image R_(t).The average value of the signal values within this evaluation area isobtained as the evaluation value E3 of the beat. The method of detectingthe main artery is as described above.

As shown in FIG. 10, the position of the pulsation part Q varies withchanges in time phase “t”. Since the pulsation part Q has a lower signalvalue than that of other blood flow part, the signal value within theevaluation area varies according to the traveling of the pulsation partQ. Thus, the evaluation value E3 is gradually reduced in the process ofthe pulsation part Q entering the evaluation area, and is graduallyincreased in the process of the pulsation part Q moving away from theevaluation area. The change in the evaluation value E3 is repeated atevery feeding of the blood out of the heart, i.e., in conformance to thebeat cycle. Accordingly, the beat can be identified by referring to theevaluation value E3.

[Distance, Directionality or Periodicity of the Movement of Local Partof Heart]

The evaluation value for the movement of the local part of heart iscalculated from the optical flow.

The image analysis section 47 identifies the image of the heart partfrom the X-ray images in each time phase based on the ROI designationinformation, and calculates the optical flow on each image of the heartpart having been detected. The optical flow can be defined as themovement of the target on the image with the lapse of time, locallyanalyzed and represented in terms of velocity vector. The optical flowcan be calculated between the X-ray images of consecutive time phases.Alternatively, an X-ray images in any particular time phase isdetermined as a reference, and the optical flow can be calculatedbetween this reference X-ray image and other X-ray images. Further,calculation can be made in any method such as a gradient method andblock matching method.

FIG. 11 shows the example of calculating the optical flow.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the result of calculating the optical flowcalculated between the images R_(t=0), R_(t=Δt) of the heart partidentified from the X-ray images in the time phases t=0, t=Δt. It is anexample of studying the movement of the target point “a” (“a” denotes apixel) related to the heart part in the image R_(t=0). Assuming that“a′” denotes the point in the image R_(t=Δt) corresponding to thistarget point “a”, a step is taken to calculate the velocity vectorshowing the movement from “a” to “a′” in the image R_(t=0). The size ofthe arrow of this velocity vector indicates the traveling distance ofthe target point “a”, and the direction of the arrow shows thedirectivity. The velocity vector for each time phase for calculating theoptical flow represents the evaluation value for the periodicity of thetraveling distance and directionality of the target point “a”.

Further, the image analysis section 47 identifies the segments in theheart part based on the ROI designation information, and calculates theaverage value of the optical flow in chronological order for each ofthese segments and the periodicity of the average value thereof. Theresults of calculation are used as the evaluation values for thetraveling distance and directionality, and the evaluation value for theperiodicity in units of segments. As described above, the evaluationvalue obtained for each segment of the heart part provides valuableinformation for diagnosis. The heart function reduction is not caused bythe reduction in the function of the entire heart by the angina or heartinfarction, but by the reduction in the function of the heart partcontrolled by the constricted or blocked coronary artery. Thus, partialevaluation is important.

The segments can be the major units of a left ventricle, left atrium,right ventricle and right atrium, or the minor units of aninterventricular septum, cardiac apex, paries anterior, paries posteriorand panes inferior in the left ventricle. As described above, the doctordesignates the heart part and segment as the ROIs in the console fordiagnosis 30. Thus, the image analysis section 47 identifies the heartpart and segment based on the ROI designation information.

Upon termination of the aforementioned analysis, each of the evaluationvalues for the heart function as the results of image analysis isattached to the group of the X-ray images in each time phase under thecontrol of the control section 41, and is sent to the server 50. Theserver 50 stores the information on evaluation value together with thegroup of the X-ray images. After that, in response to the request of theX-ray image through the console for diagnosis 30, the group of the X-rayimages in each of the time phases and the evaluation value for heartfunction are sent to the console for diagnosis 30 from the server 50.

The console for diagnosis 30 displays the group of the X-ray images ineach time phase under the control of the control section. Theinformation on the evaluation value for heart function as the result ofimage analysis is also displayed on the display section. The X-rayimages are displayed as dynamic images when the X-ray images in eachtime phase are switched and displayed in response to the time phase on acontinuous basis.

FIG. 12 gives a display screen d1 showing the blood speed, cardiacoutput and beat as an example of the evaluation value.

As shown in FIG. 12, the evaluation value E1 of the blood speed and theevaluation value E2 of the cardiac output are shown on the displayscreen d1.

The lower portion of the display screen d1 also shows the area d11showing the group of the X-ray images for calculating the evaluationvalue, and the evaluation value E3 for the beat calculated from each ofthe X-ray images.

In the area d11, the X-ray images are switched and displayed on acontinuous basis in response to the time phase. The pulsation part has adifferent brightness from other blood flow parts. This allows the doctorto identify the dynamic change of the pulsation part by switching anddisplaying. The X-ray image is shown to provide reference for theevaluation value. There is no need of displaying all the X-ray images oftime phases. It is only required that any one of them is displayed.

Further, each of the X-ray images is displayed in such a way that theimage portion as the evaluation area can be identified. This is intendedto show to the doctor which area is evaluated by the evaluation valueE3. In FIG. 12, the image portion d12 shown by the oblique lines is theevaluated area.

In conjunction with the display of the area d11, the plot points of theevaluation value E3 calculated for the X-ray image being displayed inthe area d11 are shown in white, while the plot points corresponding toother X-ray images are shown in black. This ensures the doctor to easilyidentify which of the evaluation values E3 corresponds to the X-rayimage being currently displayed on the area d11.

FIG. 13 shows the example of displaying the distance, directionality andperiodicity of the movement of the local part of heart.

The display screen d2 of FIG. 13 shows the image d21 in which the heartpart is extracted. In this image d21, the vector (indicated by an arrowin FIG. 13) showing the distance and directionality of the movement atthe target point on the heart part is shown as the evaluation value. Thevector is switched and displayed on a continuous basis for each timephase where the optical flow has been calculated, whereby theperiodicity is illustrated. It is also possible to make sucharrangements that the X-ray image in each time phase is displayed in thedisplay screen d2.

The vector is displayed in units of segments designated by the doctor.Only the image portion d22 of the segment designated by the doctor inthe image d21 is displayed, for example. If the operation for displayinstruction has been made by the doctor, the vector representing theaverage of the traveling distance and directionality calculated in unitsof segments is displayed. Further, the periodicity of the average valueis displayed by continuously switching and displaying for each timephase.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the X-rayimages in a plurality of time phases are generated by dynamicradiographing in the radiographing apparatus 10. In the image processingapparatus 40, the evaluation value for heart function is calculatedusing these X-ray images. This arrangement ensures the doctor to get theevaluation value for heart function for diagnostic use by plain X-rayradiographing operation. This can be achieved by using a widely usedradiographing apparatus 10 for plain X-ray radiographing operation,without having to use a high-priced imaging apparatus such as an MRI,whereby cost reduction can be accomplished. As the evaluation values forheart function, both the blood-related evaluation values for bloodspeed, cardiac output and beat, and the evaluation value for themovement of the heart, can be calculated with plain X-ray radiographingoperations often performed in a basic manner. This method eliminates theneed of examining the blood flow and heart part separately, with theresult that the patient burden is reduced.

For the evaluation value for heart function, the image of the pulsationpart is detected from the X-ray image, and the blood speed is calculatedfrom the traveling distance of the gravity center of this image. Thisallows the doctor to evaluate the blood speed. Further, the cardiacoutput is calculated from the volume of the pulsation part, and thedoctor can evaluate the cardiac output.

Further, the images of the main artery are detected from the X-rayimages in a plurality of time phases, and changes in the signal value ina certain area of the main artery part are calculated as the evaluationvalue for beat. This permits the doctor to evaluate the beat.

The image of the heart part is detected and the optical flow of thisimage is calculated, whereby the evaluation values for the distance,directionality and periodicity of the movement of the local part ofheart are calculated. Thus, the doctor can evaluate the distance,directionality and periodicity of the movement of the local part ofheart.

The evaluation values having been calculated are displayed on theconsole for diagnosis 30, and the X-ray images in each time phase areswitched and displayed in response to the time phase on a continuousbasis. Then the doctor can evaluate the heart function while observingthe dynamic changes in the heart part.

Dynamic radiographing is performed by a magnification radiographingmethod, which provides the X-ray image in which the heart part isenlarged. This can supply the doctor with the X-ray image suited fordiagnosis of the heart part.

Further, dynamic radiographing is performed after pre-radiographing hasbeen performed to specify the rotation angle phase where the long axisof the heart part in the X-ray image is the longest. This allows theradiographing operation to be performed in the direction suited forobservation of the heart part and evaluation of the heart function.

It should be noted that the aforementioned embodiment provides anexample preferably used in the present invention, without the presentinvention being restricted thereto.

For example, in the aforementioned embodiment, the ROI is designated bythe doctor. It is also possible to adopt an automatic detectionstructure in such a way that a template for ROI detection is prepared inadvance in the image processing apparatus 40, and template matching isperformed.

In the above description, evaluation values are displayed on the consolefor diagnosis 30. These evaluation values can also be displayed on theconsole for radiography 20 and other apparatuses (for example, PC usedfor diagnosis). Further, in the above description, an image processingapparatus 40 capable of image analysis is provided to get the evaluationvalues calculated by this image processing apparatus 40. It is alsopossible to adopt such a configuration that a program for image analysisis installed in the console for diagnosis 30 and other apparatuses,whereby evaluation values are calculated.

In addition to the memory such as a ROM, a portable medium such as a DVDcan also be used as the computer-readable medium for storing the programrelated to the aforementioned processing. Further, the carrier wave canalso be used as the medium for providing the program data via thenetwork.

The Second Embodiment

When radiographing the heart part, the dynamic radiographing system 1 inthe second embodiment allows pre-radiographing to be performed, with theholding section 13 moved on the side of the detector 12 in theradiographing apparatus 10, and determined the optimum rotation anglephase of the holding section 13. In the actual radiographing mode, theholding section 13 is fixed at the rotation angle phase having beendetermined and the holding section 13 is moved toward the X-ray source11, whereby phase contrast radiographing is performed. FIG. 14 shows theflow of processing of the radiographing apparatus 10, image processingapparatus 40 and server 50 in the radiographing system 1 in the secondembodiment. The structure of the dynamic radiographing system 1 in thesecond embodiment is the same as that already described with referenceto FIGS. 1 through 3, and will not be described.

As shown in FIG. 14, pre-radiographing is performed in the radiographingapparatus 10 (Step S21). The pre-radiographing is intended to specifythe radiographing direction that ensures easy observation of the heartpart, and the rotation angle phase of the holding section 13 is fixed inposition so that radiographing can be performed in that direction.

The same processing as that of the first embodiment is performed (FIGS.5 through 8), whereby the control section 21 calculates the length ofthe X-ray image “g” in the main scanning direction in the area of theheart part “gh” having been detected. The maximum length is determinedas the long axis 1 a in the heart part “gh” of the X-ray image “g”. Thecontrol section 21 calculates the long axis 1 a with respect to theX-ray image “g” of each rotation angle phase and specifies the X-rayimage “g” with the longest axis 1 a out of the long axes 1 a having beenobtained. The rotation angle phase of the X-ray image “g” having beenspecified is determined as the rotation angle phase in the actualradiographing mode.

When the rotation angle phase in the actual radiographing mode has beendetermined, the radiographing operation is performed by theradiographing apparatus 10 (Step S22). This operation is a dynamicradiographing operation. In this radiographing, the control section 21controls the drive section 17, whereby the holding section 13 is rotatedto the determined rotation angle phase and fixed. Further, with therotation angle phase kept unchanged, the control section 21 allows theholding section 13 to be moved toward the X-ray source 11 by the drivesection 17, as shown in FIG. 7. This is intended to apply theaforementioned magnification radiographing or the phase contrastradiographing that ensures the edge enhancement effect of the margin ofthe subject W.

The control section 21 ensures that the group of X-ray images in eachtime phase obtained by the radiographing is displayed on the displaysection 24 for the sake of checking. In this case, the X-ray images areswitched and displayed on a continuous basis in response to each timephase, whereby the dynamic state for one heart beat cycle can bechecked. The radiographing technician checks the X-ray image in eachtime phase having been displayed and performs the operation ofcompleting the radiographing if the result of checking is satisfactory.In response to this operation, the control section 21 sends to theconsole for diagnosis 30 the group of X-ray images in each time phaseobtained by the radiographing through the communicating section 25.

Similarly to the aforementioned case, the console for diagnosis 30displays the group of X-ray images in each time phase so as to bechecked. If the doctor has operated to give an instruction indicatingthat the displayed status is satisfactory, the group of X-ray images ineach frame is sent to the image processing apparatus 40 from the consolefor diagnosis 30.

In the image processing apparatus 40, the image processing section 46applies various forms of image processing to the group of X-ray imagesin each frame. The image processing is provided in such a way that theheart part can be easily examined in conformity to the heart part. Inthe following description, the examples will be taken from theprocessing of normalization and gradation conversion.

In the processing of normalization, the maximum signal value H or theminimum signal value L are obtained from the histogram of the signalvalue of the X-ray image, and these signals are converted to agree withthe prescribed reference signals SH and SL. This corrects the variationof the reached X-ray dosage produced by the variations in the body shapeof the subject W and X-ray irradiation conditions.

In the processing of gradation conversion, the density and contrast inimage output are adjusted. A basic LUT (Look-Up Table) is used toconvert the signal values so as to get a desired gradationcharacteristics.

FIG. 15 is a histogram of the signal value in the X-ray image obtainedby radiographing the chest part. In the histogram, differentcharacteristics appear according to different radiographed positions. Inthe histogram of FIG. 15, the peak appearing in the area of low signalvalue represents the signal of the body trunk area, and the peakappearing in the area of high signal value indicates the direct X-rayarea wherein X-rays are directly detected. The two peaks appearingbetween these two peaks show the signal values of the lung field area.

The range indicated by an arrow in the signal values of the lung fieldarea often indicate the signal values of the heart part. In the presentembodiment, gradation conversion is performed in such a way as toincrease the contrast of the range of these signals.

FIG. 16 shows the relationship between the X-ray dosage detected by thedetector 12 and the signal value of the X-ray image finally outputted inresponse to the X-ray dosage.

In the coordinates of FIG. 16, the first quadrant shows the readingcharacteristics. It indicates the relationship between the X-ray dosagereaching the detector 12 and the reading signal value (analog signalvalue). The second quadrant shows the normalizing characteristics. Itrepresents the relationship between the reading signal value andnormalized signal value subsequent to the processing of normalization.The third quadrant shows the gradation characteristics. It representsthe relationship between the normalized signal value and the outputsignal value (digital signal value) having been converted with the basicLUT. To be more specific, the basic LUT used in the processing ofgradation conversion is the tabulated form of the conversion curve shownin the third quadrant. It should be noted that the output signal valueis given in a 12-bit resolution of 0 through 4095 in this case.

In the second quadrant, the range of the output (the measures between SHand SL in FIG. 16) can be adjusted by changing the inclination of thestraight line showing the normalizing characteristics. Further, thecontrast of the entire image can be changed. The inclination of thisstraight line is called the value G. The height (travel of the rangebetween SH and SL) of the entire range of the output value can beadjusted by changing the segment end of the straight line showing thegradation conversion characteristics. Accordingly, the density of theentire image can be changed. This segment end is referred to as thevalue S.

For example, comparison is made regarding the cases where normalizationhas been achieved using the straight line h2 and straight line h3 ofFIG. 16. When there is an increase of the value G, the normalized signalvalue corresponding to the heart part corresponds to the straight linearea of the basic LUT. This can improve the contrast of the heart part.By changing the value (the area with large transmitted X-ray dosagereaches the saturated state. However, this area is not the target ofradiographic interpretation, and no problem arises.

The image processing section 46 adjusts the density range and contrastof the X-ray image in each time phase by changing the values G and Srepresenting gradation conversion characteristics and sets the values Gand S so that the contrast of the heart part will be increased.

The image processing apparatus 40 applies required image processing inaddition to the aforementioned processing of gradation conversion to theX-ray image in each time phase (Step S23), and sends to the server 50the group of the X-ray images in each frame having been subjected toimage processing. The server 50 organizes the group of the X-ray imagesin each time phase into a database and stores this database (Step S24).

As described above, in the present embodiment, pre-radiographing isperformed to specify the rotation angle phase where the long axis of theheart part is the longest. Then radiographing is performed at therotation angle phase. This ensures radiographing to be performed fromthe direction that permits easiest observation of the dynamic status ofthe heart, whereby an X-ray image suited for diagnosis can be obtained.Further, radiographing is performed by the radiographing apparatus 10based on the normal plain X-ray radiographing method. This means areduced burden on the patient. The radiographing apparatuses 10 based ona plain X-ray radiographing method are widely used in the medicalinstitutions. Without having to introduce a new CT radiographingapparatus, the X-ray image suited for diagnosis of the heart can beobtained using the conventional radiographing apparatus 10. Thiscontributes to cost reduction.

In the actual radiographing mode, dynamic radiographing is performed.Thus, at the time of medical examination, the X-ray images in each timephase obtained by dynamic radiographing are switched and displayed on acontinuous basis. This allows moving images to be observed. Thus, thebehavior of the blood flow and others in the heart can be checked at thetime of medical examination.

Further, at the time of the radiographing, the holding section 13 ismoved toward the X-ray source 11, and magnification radiographing isperformed. This provides the X-ray image with an enlarged view of theheart part. Thus, the doctor is supplied with the X-ray image ensuringeasier observation of the heart part. Phase contrast radiographing canbe performed by adjusting the radiographing conditions at the time ofthis radiographing. Use of this phase contrast radiographing modeprovides a high-quality X-ray image characterized by a clear view of theedge portion of the tissue of the heart part, in addition to enlargedview of the heart part.

In the image processing apparatus 40, image processing conforming to aheart part is applied to the X-ray image for the purpose of improvingthe contrast of the heart part. This provides a high-quality X-ray imagesuited for medical examination of the heart part.

It should be noted that the aforementioned embodiment is a preferredexample of the present invention, without the present invention beingrestricted thereto.

For example, in addition to the memory such as a ROM, a portable mediumsuch as a DVD can also be used as the computer-readable medium forstoring the program used for the aforementioned processing. Further, acarrier wave can also be used as a medium for providing the program datavia the network.

1. A dynamic radiographing system comprising: a radiographing devicewhich radiographs dynamically a heart part of a subject by plainradiography and generates X-ray images in a plurality of time phases,the radiographing device including an X-ray source for emitting an X-rayand a detector for detecting the X-ray emitted from the X-ray source; animage analysis device for calculating an evaluation value relating to aheart function using the X-ray images in the plurality of time phases; adisplay device; and a control device which allows the display device todisplay thereon information on the calculated evaluation value.
 2. Thedynamic radiographing system of claim 1, wherein the evaluation valueincludes an evaluation value of blood speed and wherein the imageanalysis device detects images of a pulsating part from the X-ray imagesin the plurality of time phases, and calculates a center of gravity ofthe pulsating part detected from each of the X-ray images in theplurality of time phases, and then calculates a traveling distance ofthe center of gravity per unit time as the evaluation value of bloodspeed.
 3. The dynamic radiographing system of claim 1, wherein theevaluation value includes an evaluation value of cardiac output andwherein the image analysis device detects an image of a pulsating partfrom the X-ray images in the plurality of time phases, and calculates avolume of the pulsating part having been detected as the evaluationvalue of cardiac output.
 4. The dynamic radiographing system of claim 1,wherein the evaluation value includes an evaluation value of a beat andwherein the image analysis device detects images of a main artery partfrom the X-ray images in the plurality of time phases, and calculates achange of a signal value in a prescribed area of the main artery partdetected from each of the X-ray images in the plurality of time phasesas the evaluation value of the beat.
 5. The dynamic radiographing systemof claim 1, wherein the evaluation value includes an evaluation value ofa distance, directionality or periodicity of a movement of a local partof heart and wherein the image analysis device detects images of theheart part from the X-ray images in the plurality of time phases, andcalculates the distance, the directionality or the periodicity of themovement of the local part of heart between the images of the heart partof different time phases.
 6. The dynamic radiographing system of claim5, wherein the image analysis device calculates the evaluation value forthe distance, the directionality or the periodicity of the movement ofthe local part of heart for each segment of the heart part.
 7. Thedynamic radiographing system of claim 1, wherein the control deviceallows the display device to display thereon at least one of the X-rayimages in the plurality of time phases together with the information onthe evaluation value.
 8. The dynamic radiographing system of claim 1,wherein the radiographing device takes an enlarged radiograph of theheart part.
 9. The dynamic radiographing system of claim 1, wherein theradiographing device radiographs in a rotation angle phase in which along axis of the heart part in an X-ray image is longest.
 10. Thedynamic radiographing system of claim 1, further comprising: a holdingdevice which holds the subject which is a radiographing target rotatablybetween the X-ray source and the detector; and a reading device forreading an X-ray image from the detector, wherein the control devicecontrols so that a rotation angle phase of the holding device isvariable and the X-ray source emits an X-ray in a plurality of rotationangle phases in a pre-radiographing mode, and the control devicedetermines a rotation angle phase in which a long axis of a heart areais longest, based on each of X-ray images obtained in each of the aplurality of rotation angle phases from the detector by the readingdevice, and allows the X-ray source to emit the X-ray while fixing theholding device at the rotation angle phase in an actual radiographingmode.
 11. The dynamic radiographing system of claim 10, wherein theholding device is arranged movably between the X-ray source and thedetector and wherein the control device determines the rotation anglephase in which the long axis of the heart area is longest at a positionwhere the holding device has moved toward the detector in thepre-radiographing mode, and the control device allows the holding deviceto move toward the X-ray source after fixing the rotation angle phase ofthe holding device in the actual radiographing mode.
 12. The dynamicradiographing system of claim 10, wherein the control device allows theX-ray source to emit an X-ray a plurality of times continuously in theactual radiographing mode, and allows the reading device to read theX-ray image from the detector for each emission of the X-ray so as toallow the system to perform dynamic radiographing of the heart area. 13.The dynamic radiographing system of claim 10, further comprising: animage processing device which applies image processing in conformity tothe heart part to the X-ray image obtained by an actual radiographingoperation.